Child Protective Services (CPS)

Child Protective Services (CPS)is responsible for the investigation of reports of suspected child abuse and maltreatment. Coverage is provided 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. During non-business hours, workers are reached by the NYS Central Registry Hotline through a beeper service. Investigations are initiated within 24 hours of the receipt of a report. Staff has up to 60 days to make a determination of indicated (some credible evidence of abuse, maltreatment or neglect) or unfounded (no credible evidence) regarding these reports.

Cases of child abuse and neglect are processed by the Sullivan County Family Court system to determine legal custody of the children. Preventive Services are offered to all families in need.

Family Violence Response Team (FVRT) was established in 1999 in response to the growing concern about increased incidents of child abuse. The Department of Family Services, in conjunction with the Sullivan District Attorney's office and all law enforcement agencies in the county, created a county-wide investigation unit to ensure uniform handling of cases of alleged physical and sexual abuse of children.

The team is committed to thoroughly investigating all child abuse allegations in a manner that is least traumatic to the child victims and their families. The FVRT investigates reports of alleged sexual abuse, serious physical abuse and domestic violence. All team members receive specialized training in the investigation of child abuse cases.